Rishabh Pant’s fractured foot innings earned standing ovations, but by stumps on day two, England’s openers had stolen the spotlight. With India dismissed for 358, England raced to 225 for 2, thanks to Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley’s commanding opening stand.
Rishabh Pant’s Fractured Foot Knock Sparks Inspiration
Before England took control, Rishabh Pant’s fractured foot innings captured the attention of the cricketing world. Despite severe injury, Pant came out to bat at Old Trafford and scored a valiant 54. He hit his 90th Test six, equalling Virender Sehwag’s national record. His knock also took him past Alec Stewart for most runs by a wicketkeeper in a Test series in England.
His arrival at the crease brought emotional scenes. Wearing a moon boot earlier in the day, Pant limped onto the field and defied medical advice. India, struggling at 295 for 6, found momentum through his courageous effort. His ability to rotate strike and find boundaries—even while hobbling—kept the innings alive.
Day 2 Stumps – Manchester 🏟️
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) July 24, 2025
England trail by 133 runs in this do-or-die clash for India 🇮🇳🔥
Tense moments ahead!
📸 Getty #ENGvsIND #TestCricket #WTC25 #CricketDrama pic.twitter.com/s6UID968wz
Stokes Five-For Sets the Stage for England
Ben Stokes, leading from the front, bowled with intensity and claimed his first five-wicket haul in eight years. His spell broke the back of India’s middle order. He dismissed Thakur and Sundar with movement and bounce. Stokes’ tally now stands at 16 wickets in the series—a personal best.
Duckett and Crawley Pile on the Pressure
In response, Duckett and Crawley punished wayward Indian bowling. Though not looking to accelerate, they scored freely, putting up a 166-run opening partnership. Duckett, especially strong on the leg side, raced to 94. Crawley supported with a composed 84.
Debutant Anshul Kamboj struggled early, conceding boundaries. Meanwhile, India’s length and line proved inconsistent, allowing England’s batters to settle in and control the game.
Ben Duckett plays a fiery knock — 94 off 100 balls against India in the 4th Test! 🔥
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) July 24, 2025
Solid intent at Manchester 💯
📸 Getty #BenDuckett #ENGvsIND #TestCricket #CricketHighlights #Getty pic.twitter.com/g16c2v9hvP
India’s Challenge Ahead
By stumps, England trailed by just 133 runs. While Rishabh Pant’s fractured foot innings lifted spirits, India’s bowlers must regroup quickly to regain momentum on day three.
